'Talismanic' Bruno Fernandes backed for future Manchester United captaincy by former Udinese coach

Bruno Fernandes excelled in his first half-season at Manchester United
Manchester United via Getty Imag
Matt Davies24 August 2020

Bruno Fernandes has been backed to become the captain of Manchester United by former Udinese manager Andrea Stramaccioni, who described the midfielder as "talismanic".

The 25-year-old proved an inspired acquisition for United following his January move from Sporting Lisbon, scoring 12 goals and providing eight assists in 22 games as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side secured a third-place Premier League finish.

The playmaker also scored United's only goal as they fell to a Europa League semi-final defeat to Sevilla, their third last-four loss of the season across all competitions.

United looked significantly improved following Fernandes' arrival and he eventually formed a promising midfield partnership with Paul Pogba.

And Stramaccioni, who managed Fernandes in Italy, believes he has all the qualities necessary to become United skipper.

REUTERS

“Bruno is a very good boy, a very good person," Stramaccioni told Sky Sports. "He is a really hard worker, he’s positive.

“When we were at Udinese he worked a lot and his approach was always positive.

“He can certainly captain Manchester United, he is a really talismanic player. He is loved by the fans, respected by his team-mates – even from opponents.

“To be captain of Manchester United is something really, really important. I hope he will be.

“I think now we don’t need to think about this kind of thing, he has to think about keeping his performance at a high level, as he is doing, and step by step gain the respect of everyone around him – the media, the fans – and continue to keep a high level.”